Ex-smokers given help to shape up

Smokers in Cumbria are being given an incentive to stub out the cigarettes and help them get fit in 2009.

NHS Cumbria is offering free leisure centre passes to smokers in Carlisle and Barrow if they quit through the county's Stop Smoking service.

The quit and get fit initiative has been piloted successfully in Carlisle for the last six months.

Those taking part will receive the incentive following a carbon monoxide check to confirm they have quit.

The check will be carried out four weeks after their quit date.

If they are smoke-free, they will be offered a voucher for council leisure centres which are taking part in the scheme.